Posted - 07/14/2014 : 05:51:32 AM Hello, World cup ended last night and I need a new indoor hobby for the winter months. I am 35, with 3 kids, 7, 5 and 2 year old. I have always been handy with craft but I want to do something to connect with the kids and get them away from xbox!! My daughter has shown some interest in knitting so I thought I would encourage by a few books and few forums. My daughter says dads can't knit that is for grannies, so there a challenge there. So far I have knitted a headband!! not very impressive but every journey starts with a first step.I'm Irish and wool and knitting are kind of part of our heritage and I have seen some great yarnbombing street Art around the country and maybe if kids see a dad try something might influence them in some ways. Also great way to relieve stress and I spend too much time online!

Joined this forum and will drop in and out from time to time and let you know how I get on.

I suppose my main ambition is to make myself an aran sweater, like this one http://www.aransweatermarket.com/clan-aran-sweaters/maguire to be precise. I think by the end of next year I should be able too, a realistic target right!. This winter might just work on some scarves and hats until i get my needles well use to stitching.

Posted - 07/26/2014 : 6:52:27 PM It is never good to back down from a challenge, good for you! :) I look forward to watching your progress and to seeing your completed aran sweater!

My name is Michelle, and I'm a yarnaholic.

robinstephanie

Posted - 07/19/2014 : 5:07:03 PM Francis, right on for taking her up on that challenge. What a cool way to connect with your kids. Aran sweaters are incredible, and a super great ambition to aim for. I'd recommend trying out small patterns with different kinds of shaping and cables to help you practice the meat of the Aran. Have you heard of Ravelry.com? It's a huge pattern and information database for knitters (and crocheters, spinners, and weavers, but those are other rabbit holes).

You can search patterns with many criteria: using small amounts of yarn, cables, and beginner level are three criteria in particular you can sort for. OK, I couldn't help myself. Here's a few fun ones:

Posted - 07/14/2014 : 08:27:24 AM Everyone can knit, and good for you to try something new to connect with your kids! There are lots of easy patterns out there (you have heard of Ravelry, yes?) and you'll be ready to make that sweater in no time!